The significance of the carbon-nitrogen-oxygen cycle lies in its role in maintaining life and ecological balance on Earth. This cycle includes the processes of photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen fixation, which contribute to the cycling of essential elements. Carbon is sequestered by plants and returned to the atmosphere through respiration and decomposition, while nitrogen is fixed by bacteria to make it usable for plants. This interconnected cycling is critical for supporting the growth of organisms and the health of ecosystems.